Dog Clothing For Large Dogs
Everyone at one time or another has seen a little toy poodle wearing a sweater. For some reason, people tend to think that only small dogs need dog clothing. The reality of it is that all dogs could benefit from wearing dog clothes. Small dogs are equipped with the same coat length and amount of body fat as large dogs. That being said, there are certain breeds of dogs that are better equipped for the cold. A Husky will not need to wear a winter sweater for example.
Let’s look at one of the largest breeds of dogs, the Great Dane. Great Danes are huge animals. They are certainly among the tallest dogs. When was the last time you saw a Great Dane wearing a winter coat? Probably never. This is really quite ridiculous because they have the same type and length of coat that a Chihuahua has. They generally don’t have any more body fat on them than a Chihuahua has so why wouldn’t their owners put a coat on them when walking them in the winter months.
I think it has something to do with image. People tend to think of small dogs as being frail little creatures that need to be pampered and babied. Conversely, people think of big dogs as being tough and hearty animals. Another factor that is also related to image is that a lot of times people who are concerned with looking tough or macho own large dogs. These people often don’t want others to think of them as being soft or weak. They think that putting a coat or sweater on their large dog might somehow make them look less tough.
If you are a large dog owner, please keep in mind that just like people get cold, their large dogs can too. Please be a responsible dog owner and dress them appropriately for the weather conditions.